Omnes. Oh! spare us, spare us!
(stopping him
Gus. Just as you please ladies, but it is your misfortune that you do not appreciate good music.
Kitty. Papa, that is a very pretty custom of yours, of every year giving presents to the children of mortals; so pretty indeed, that I wonder you have not tried it at home, that you have never given your daughter a Christmas present.
Santa. My dear child, it would be useless; the wealth of my kingdom is at your command; your every wish is gratified. What more could I give you than you already have?
Kitty. But surely, surely, there is something in the land of mortals which I have not. Could you not bring me a gift from there?
Santa. I had not thought of that. Yes, ask what e’er thou wilt, be it in my power to do so I will grant it.
Kitty. You have given your word.
Santa. Yes, and my word is worth twenty piastries on the dollar.
Kitty. Then papa, bring me—bring me—a man!